Waterbury Police Captain Chris Corbett says the woman had to be transfered to the Bridgeport Burn Center, while the man was treated and released from Saint Mary’s Hospital.

Both suffered second degree burns.

“It appears that while they were trying to re-light the torch, some of the lighter fluid caught on fire, and burned the two volunteers,” Corbett said.

The incident took place on North Elm Street. The two injured people were in the back of a truck which preceedes the torch runners.

In a written statement, the Connecticut Special Olympics said “Our top priority – today and every day – is for the safety and well being of our athletes and volunteers.

“We’re deeply concerned about today’s events and the well being of those involved and will review the entire matter and all procedures to make certain this does not happen again,” the statement concludes.